Cricket: Hampshire 3 league leaders Shanklin open gap at the top

SKIPPER Andy White is shrugging off any thought of Shanklin winning a title at this early stage of the cricket season, but said he is delighted with the superb start to their campaign in Division 3 (South) of the Hampshire League.

The Westhill side continued their 100 per cent winning start with a 57-run win over Verwood.

Shanklin's Mark Ringer takes a good low catch to dismiss one of the Verwood top order.

In a rain-affected game, the home side were put into bat, with openers Mark Ringer (73) and James Lucy (48) putting on a fine opening century stand.

Verwood got back into the game, but Shanklin’s 198 looked a challenge in the conditions.

Shanklin pace bowler Benji White goes on the offensive against Verwood in their Hampshire Division 3 (South) match at Westhill on Saturday.

Despite rain stoppages and an adjusted target of 155, the Isle of Wight side took wickets regularly, with Callum Wright (3-21) the pick of the bowlers — well supported by Benji White (2-12), Lee Brown (2-9) and skipper, White (2-15), who left Verwood well short.

Division rivals Ventnor II lost by nine wickets against Old Netley and Highfield at Steephill.

Ventnor posted 172-8, but the visitors were set a rain-reduced target of 134 — reached comfortably.

Ventnor I had another miserable day away at Southern Premier Division 1 leaders Hook and Newnham Basics, losing by 185 runs.

After bowling Hook for 246, thanks to Zeph Wells (4-46) and Hugh Calloway (3-45), Ventnor capitulated, skittled out for 61, after rain delays reduced their target to 149.

In Hampshire 1, Ryde I looked set for their second win of the season after Sway reached 172-9, but the match succumbed to the rain when cruising at 56-1.

Ryde II, however, kept their perfect win record going at high-flying Fareham and Crofton II.

The Islanders held them to 196-5 — Tom Morgan grabbing 3-27.

Ryde’s in-form batting line-up reached the target with three wickets to spare — Ben Wadmore (72) and Mark Oatley (41) playing well to ease Shanklin to victory.

Ryde Cavaliers forfeited their match at Purbrook II, with many of the side having bought tickets to go to the Isle of Wight Festival.

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